A retired Customs officer, Emmanuel Owolabi, who was kidnapped by suspected bandits in Ora, Osun State, has regained his freedom following the payment of an undisclosed ransom.
The release was announced by Dr. Yemi Farounbi, ex-Nigeria Ambassador to the Philippines and Asiwaju of Ora-Igbomina, in a statement obtained in Osogbo on Tuesday.
A source directly involved in the negotiations said Owolabi was freed in Oro Ago, a community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, late on Monday.
“He was freed by his abductors late on Monday. We got him in the forest around Oro Ago. We paid for his release millions were involved,” the source confirmed.
The development underscores ongoing security challenges in parts of Osun and Kwara states, where banditry and kidnappings continue to threaten residents. Authorities have been urged to intensify patrols and preventive measures in vulnerable communities.